Abstract

A multilayer Lifshitz calculation of van der Waals interactions at the magnetic storage head–disk interface is presented. The calculation of the Hamaker function for model multilayerfilm stacks that incorporate different media overcoat materials is obtained. These functions allow the comparison of interfacial forces when the media is coated with diamondlike carbon, with and without the inclusion of hydrogen and annealing, and overcoat films. A significant difference, , in the magnitude of the interfacial force with the different overcoats is calculated.